My Airhead Composting Toilet Review (After 4 Years)

Is the airhead composting toilet worth it? After 4 years with it, I can say I’ve *mostly* loved my Airhead composting toilet. It’s an investment, but it’s held up really well while living full time on the road.

Below is my complete airhead composting toilet review – the good and the bad!

My Airhead Composting Toilet Review

I did a lot of research trying to decide between the Airhead vs Nature’s Head composting toilet for van life. Ultimately, I chose the Airhead over the Nature’s Head for a few reasons:

While many aspects of the Nature’s Head are comparable to the Airhead composting toilet, Nature’s Head has a molded toilet seat, which many reviewers said was uncomfortable.

Additionally, in order to remove the liquids tank (which I do almost daily) you have to open the entire toilet, exposing the solids – which is not only gross to look at constantly, but also allows bugs to get in.

Airhead Composting Toilet Review: What I Like

Installation of my composting toilet was easy. It attaches to the floor with 4 mounting brackets and you’re easily able to detach the toilet whenever needed (like when you clean it out).

The most difficult part of the installation is drilling a hole in your van for the ventilation. Mine vents out of the floor, but you’re also able to vent from a side wall.

The holding capacity of my liquids and solids tanks are sufficient for my needs. I tend to use public restrooms when available for solids, just to keep the frequency of emptying my tank to a minimum.

I usually only have to empty my solids tank every 1-2 months.

The liquids tank on the Airhead is slightly smaller than Nature’s Head. Airhead can hold 2 gallons of liquid, but Nature’s Head can hold slightly more – 2.2 gallons.

This means that my friend who has a Nature’s Head empties her tank about every 2 days, whereas I empty mine every 1-1.5 days. Ultimately, this isn’t enough of a difference for me to mind.

The toilet is really well sealed. This means no odors escape, and no bugs are able to get in.

Even in Baja, Mexico I didn’t have any issues with flies or other bugs getting into the compost.

This can be especially bad because flies lay eggs which turn into nasty things like maggots. I’m very happy I’ve never had to deal with that.

Airhead Composting Toilet Review: What I’d Change

Truthfully, this is a pretty short list. I wish that the Airhead was more affordable – especially when compared to other campervan toilet options.

There are many great composting toilets on the market now for under $300.

Having an agitator in the solids tank (to stir it up and help the composting process) is nice for when I go long periods between emptying the tank.

However, I find that I’m frequently (at least every few days) having access to trash cans, so I’d prefer the option to remove the agitator and use a bagged liner for easy disposable instead. Cuddy offers this feature with their Lite model.

Unfortunately, the Airhead agitator is not removable so I’m stuck with what I have.

While the Airhead composting toilet comes with a small viewing window on the liquids tank (to tell when it’s full), it’s opaque and very difficult to actually tell whether or not your tank is reaching capacity.

Unfortunately, I’ve overflowed my tank a few times, which is a gross mess to deal with. The viewing window on the Nature’s Head is more translucent and easier to tell when it’s full.

Airhead Composting Toilet Review: Would I buy It Again? No.

Actually, no. This is solely because of the cost, and not because of the quality.

I do love my Airhead composting toilet and I don’t have many regrets about the purchase.

However, since I bought my Airhead in 2020 there have been many new products to enter the market.

If I had to buy a new composting toilet today I would choose the Cuddy Lite, simply because it has the same high quality materials for far less money.

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Airhead Composting Toilet Price

The airhead composting toilet price is just over $1,000 USD.

Airhead composting toilets are one of the more expensive off-grid toilet options. They’re slightly more expensive than the Nature’s Head composting toilet by about $50.

While I love my Airhead composting toilet, I wouldn’t buy it again. There are many new toilet options for van life available now, and for far better prices.

Some of the top van toilet options I would consider are:

• Cuddy starts around $650 and offers similar features to Airhead, but in a compact size that’s more efficient for small campervans (get $30 off with “everywhere30”)
• Trelino starts around $375 for the small model (get $15 off with “everywhere15”)

For a more detailed comparison, check out this Cuddy Lite Vs Trelino review.

Airhead Composting Toilet Problems

Even though the airhead composting toilet is a great van toilet, it doesn’t come without some problems.

You can expect some of these airhead composting toilet problems, as you would with most composting toilets:

#1 Mixing Things You Don’t Want Mixed

When liquids and solids mix it creates sewage, which is a problem for several reasons – but the first one you’ll probably notice is the smell it produces. Gross.

This is why Airhead is designed to separate these into different containers.

However, liquids getting into the solids tank can happen by leaks or cracks in the toilet seal.

An unlevel toilet or poor “aim” can also cause liquids to run backwards into the solids tank instead of forwards towards the liquids tank as the diverter is designed to function. 

That said, in 4 years I’ve never had any issues with leaks or with liquids entering the solids holding tank. So, this is a minimal risk.

If you do experience this airhead composting toilet problem you can replace the seals or use a bondo filler on any cracks.

#2 Overflow

With a limited capacity for storing liquids (2 gallons), it’s almost guaranteed that at some point you’re going to overflow your tank.

I’m embarrassed to admit that I’ve encountered this airhead composting toilet problem (*multiple times*).

However, based on the experiences of my friends who also live in vans this is really not that uncommon for any type of composting toilet. As they say … shit happens! 

(But to be clear, I’m talking about liquids overflow. Not solids. Solids overflow would be almost impossible, and yet highly impressive if accomplished.)

Airhead has one of the bigger liquids holding tanks, compared to most composting toilets. Nature’s Head is slightly larger – 0.2 gallons more than Airhead.

#3 Bugs

You read that right. Bugs.

They’re attracted to compost so it’s important to make sure your toilet installation is done correctly.

Airhead composting toilets have multiple bug prevention features, and if used correctly, they are very effective. Bugs are not one of the Airhead composting toilet problems I’ve personally experienced.

The lid has a seal which prevents bugs from getting into the tank from the toilet bowl.

Each air ventilation inlet and outlet on the solids tank has a bug screen which allows air flow without worrying about flies or gnats.

Additionally, the exhaust hose which removes air from the compost container has an inline screen within it, as a secondary preventative measure. 

Keeping the fan on 24/7 will help deter flies and gnats because of the airflow which makes it hard for them to enter.

In addition to the provided screens, I also put one over the exhaust hole under my van for times when the van is stored/not being used, or when the fan is not running.

I have seen others complain about bugs, however, I have not personally had any issues with my airhead composting toilet attracting any flies or gnats.

#4 Liquids Odor

This isn’t specifically an Airhead composting toilet problem, but all urine diverting toilets will build up a funky odor in the liquids tank unless it’s regularly cleaned.

Cleaning isn’t difficult – it just requires some vinegar and a few small rocks. A good shake will chemically and mechanically clear all the grime buildup inside.

I have not experienced that the liquids odor is noticeable in the van. The only time I notice it is while more liquids are entering the container which is pushing air (and odor) out as the tank fills. It’s very contained only to that 30 seconds and then it disappears quickly.

#5 Limited Capacity

Unless you’ve retrofitted your airhead composting toilet to run liquids into a larger holding tank (they also sell a liquid tank modification for this), the OEM tank only holds 2 gallons – equivalent to approximately 1-2 days capacity for a single user.

While it’s fairly quick and easy to empty the liquids container in most places, it’s still one more thing to remember.

I don’t do it often, but I’ve been known to forget to empty the liquids tank before bed. Don’t worry, the tank overflowing at 3am when I’m half asleep is a very fast reminder that I’ve messed up. This is why I’ve put this in the Airhead composting toilet problems category.

#6 Agitator

The agitator is the mixing arm in the solids tank that helps aid the composting process.

Composting requires fresh oxygen so mixing the solids material helps oxygen reach the stuff at the bottom so it can break down.

(To be technically correct, not *all* composting requires oxygen, but composting toilets use aerobic bacteria which requires oxygen – and this is preferable to anaerobic composting which is extremely stinky)

Unfortunately, the agitator arm in the airhead composting toilet doesn’t quite reach the bottom of the tank, and it definitely doesn’t reach all of the sides.

Compost medium, toilet paper and your own tank deposits will build up along the sides, avoiding the agitator arms reach.

This means you need to glove-up and scrape out the bottom of the tank when you’re dumping the old material and replacing it with fresh composting medium.

Typically, I notice that the bottom material left unscraped by the agitator is mostly the original/unsoiled medium. The solids deposits don’t really get mixed into it, so it stays fairly “fresh” and is really not that unpleasant to scrape out.

Alternatives to an Airhead Composting Toilet

There are many alternative composting toilets on the market:

• Cuddy Lite (best overall)
• Trelino
• Trobolo (least expensive)
• Boxio
• Nature’s Head (great for off-grid)
• OGO
• Separett

While composting campervan toilets all work the same way, generally, they differ in capacity, comfortability, size and cost.

Alternatives to a Composting Toilet for Van Life

Composting toilets aren’t your only option when it comes to a van toilet. Below are a few alternatives to composting toilets, or you can check out this article on the best types of portable campervan toilets.

• Incinerator toilet
• Cassette toilet
• Porta potty / Portable toilet

What is an Airhead Composting Toilet?

The airhead composting toilet is a waterless toilet. Sounds kind of weird, right?

Instead of requiring water to flush the bowl the airhead composting toilet works by separating liquids and solids into different holding tanks. Solids drop directly into the tank (thank you gravity) so there are no, err… skid marks.

How Does The Air Head Composting Toilet Work?

The first thing most people want to know is how does it work? It’s actually quite similar to a normal toilet.

The primary difference is there’s no need to flush. Instead, just open the trapdoor before you go number two.

Air Head Toilet Features

Airhead Composting Toilet Dimensions

Airhead composting toilet dimensions are 19” deep x 19 ¾” tall x 18 ¾” wide.

For super small spaces you can order the airhead composting toilet with a marine seat. This smaller version of the air head toilet measures 17 ½” deep x 19 ¾” tall x 18 ¾” wide.

Airhead Toilet Weight

An empty airhead toilet weighs 29 lbs (13 kg).

Installing an Airhead Composting Toilet in a Camper Van

Airhead composting toilets are actually quite easy to install. They only require a hole to vent the exhaust (about ~3 inches in diameter) and brackets that mount to the floor.

1. Cut a hole in your van floor or side wall for the exhaust vent
2. Install 12V fan and connect to power
3. Trim vent hose to length and attach between fan and toilet
4. Secure toilet mounting brackets to your van floor
5. Prepare composting material for solids tank

Both Airhead and Nature’s Head composting toilets require some installation in order for them to work properly.

If you’re looking for a composting toilet that does not require any installation I recommend Cuddy, Trelino, Trobolo or Boxio.

Airhead Toilet FAQs

How do You Empty an Airhead Composting Toilet?

Airhead composting toilets have two holding tanks: one for solids and one for liquids. How you empty liquids is different than how you empty solids.

Liquids can simply be dumped into a toilet, or responsibly in nature following Leave No Trace principles.

Solids can be shaken into a garbage bag and thrown into a trash can. Or, after 6 months the compost can be safely used – just remember that human waste takes 6 months to break down and be clear of biohazards.

What do You do With Waste From a Composting Toilet?

The solids tank of an airhead composting toilet can be emptied into a garbage bag and disposed of with residential trash.

While this sounds weird, and like it shouldn’t be allowed, it’s important to remember that solids from a composting toilet aren’t considered sewage – sewage is when your liquids mix with your solids.

By separating solids and allowing them to compost the bad bacteria dies off quickly. When you empty your solids tank you’ll be pleasantly surprised to notice that it largely resembles and smells like dirt.

What to do With Urine From Compost Toilet?

To empty the liquids tank in an airhead composting toilet you can dump it in a toilet or pit toilet.

Additionally, in most places you’re permitted to dump your liquids on mature vegetation, following leave no trace principles.

Some municipalities have laws against this (especially in deserts or watersheds) so always double check local ordinances.

Do You Put Toilet Paper in Airhead Composting Toilet?

You sure can! I use Scotts toilet paper because it’s septic-safe and breaks down a lot faster than other brands, like Charmin. All of my toilet paper goes into the solids tank and is composted.

Some van dwellers prefer to use a trash can for their toilet paper. This keeps the composting toilet solids tank from filling as quickly (although if you’re using Scotts toilet paper it’s barely noticeable). 

Personally I think it’s weird to have to open a trash can and see someone else’s used TP, I’d rather throw it all down the hatch and forget about it.

Does the Airhead Composting Toilet Require Electricity?

Technically, yes. There’s a 12 volt exhaust fan that helps remove odors and aid the composting process.

In reality, you don’t need to use this. Your composting toilet will still function without the fan, but you might have a few more bugs.

Is There an Airhead Toilet Discount Coupon?

Unfortunately, the airhead composting toilet doesn’t typically go on sale, so it’s hard to find a “deal”.

That said, Airhead occasionally exhibits at trade shows and festivals and where they offer a small discount to attendees – so if you’re in the market to buy a new airhead toilet keep an eye on your local events!

A second option for discounted airhead composting toilets is ebay. Occasionally, airhead composting toilets with modified configurations are available at a reduced price.

Conclusion – My Airhead Composting Toilet Review for Van Life

Is the airhead composting toilet worth it? Yes! The airhead composting toilet is a fantastic toilet for van life.

If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, I’d suggest Cuddy Lite.

In fact, if I were to build a second van I would strongly consider Cuddy. While it has fewer bells and whistles, for the price point I believe it’s a much better value.

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